Adelaide Fringe & Arts SA announce $500K in grants for artists

South Australian artists can apply to share in $500,000 of grants thanks to Adelaide Fringe, to assist in planning for a return to live music in 2021.

The grants will be distributed in tiers of $5,000 and $10,000, and are made possible by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet through Arts South Australia.

Adelaide Fringe director and CEO Heather Croall says the grants are designed to help reduce financial risks for artists presenting in the 2021 Fringe.

“We are thrilled to be able to distribute these grants and look forward to seeing the applications coming in,” Croall said.

“Adelaide Fringe is so important for artists, audiences and businesses of SA; these grants will help to ensure that we can deliver a COVID-safe festival in these very uncertain times.

"The ecosystem of Fringe creates opportunities for many across Adelaide and SA, and these grants will help keep Fringe strong for 2021 and beyond.”

Applications for grants are open from now through to October 21, 2020, and will be assessed on a rolling basis until the fund is exhausted.

Croall says she is looking forward to the return of Fringe in 2021 under COVID-safe guidelines.

“We know Fringe 2021 will look a little different, but we are excited to support our innovative, artists and vibrant venues that are key to making our festival thrive.

"Of course, all Fringe activity will be delivered within COVID rules and regulations as set by SA Health, but we are adapting and excited to see the Fringe roll out in new innovative ways.”

South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said the government is proud to support SA artists with the new grant fund.

“It has been a tough year for all of our artists, and we look forward to seeing fantastic shows across the Fringe landscape in many city, suburban and regional venues. Adelaide Fringe creates hundreds of jobs and generates significant economic expenditure across the state,” he said.

Adelaide Fringe registrations close on 4 November 2020.

The 2021 Adelaide Fringe will run from 19 February until 21 March.